Mandy Smith knows a little something about anxiety.
As the first female pastor in her denomination, Smith has felt the pressure of being the only person of her gender in the room time and time again. She knows what it’s like to have people assume she’s in a meeting to take minutes. She’s felt the responsibility to represent all women in settings where she feels like a token rather than truly belonging.
In those moments when discomfort and worry begin to bubble up, Smith takes comfort in the presence of the living God.
“I know nothing good comes from anxiety,” said Smith on a recent episode of Being Human. There is a power that is beyond our power, and that is the place where any good creativity comes from.”
Whether she is preparing to preach or working on a piece of art, Smith reminds herself that God is God and that she is “just a person”—a statement she finds soothing when she feels the weight of the world upon her shoulders.
As we encounter our own moments of angst and anxiety, may we seek out God’s presence with intention. And may the Holy Spirit remind us that the fact that we are “just” a person is, in fact, wonderful news.
How can Christians in America navigate politics with their souls intact? That’s one of the questions that host Steve Cuss and his guest—author, pastor, and artist Mandy Smith—consider…
The secret is out: We’ve updated our look with a nod to our legacy and refreshed our content—while keeping longtime favorites like testimonies and books coverage. In this issue, we look to the past for wisdom to address a fractured evangelicalism in the present and future, with editor in chief Russell Moore issuing a call for moral clarity. Read an in-depth report on a consequential evangelical voting bloc; sit with an honest reflection on struggling to find community; and, as same-sex sexuality divides the church, be equipped and encouraged to stand on biblical fidelity. New features include an advice column (featuring Beth Moore), some curated podcast gold, and a brand-new pastoral column. We’re glad you’re here with us and look forward to seeking the kingdom together in this new era at Christianity Today.
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